Meeting of the Parliament 12 February 2026 [Draft]
Absolutely. Volunteering is undoubtedly good for the person who volunteers. We think that it is an altruistic act, but it is actually pretty good for the volunteer, too. I am very proud of the number of young people who volunteer in sport in Scotland, and I would be delighted to encourage more to get involved.
When I was preparing for the debate, I reflected on a film premiere that I recently went to in my constituency. The seaboard villages, along with the Scottish Football Museum, created a film to celebrate 100 years of grass-roots football in that area. If anyone has a wee 45 minutes to spare, I suggest that they watch the film on YouTube. It is an illustration of the power of football and the inclusion that Davy Russell talked about—the community cohesion, social connection and the health and wellbeing impacts. We have some sporting excellence, too. Grass-roots clubs are essential for the future of Scottish football. Every professional player and Scotland international—every moment of national pride—has their roots in a local club, a dedicated coach and a community that believed in them.
For clubs across the country, the key challenges remain largely the same. The on-going challenge of recruiting and retaining volunteers to support increased participation and ensuring the affordability for families of sports participation, combined with the rising cost of living and the need to make accessible suitable facilities for clubs, is compounded by a continuing increase in demand. The Scottish Government understands the important role that sporting facilities play in improving people’s lives, whether it is through their taking part in sport and physical activity for the first time or in developing, progressing or achieving success, with the physical, mental and social health benefits that that brings.
I agree with Daniel Johnson that good access to high-quality and affordable facilities is essential to support participation, whether that be in football or other sports. Edinburgh South is an SFA platinum quality mark accredited community club that has been operating for more than half a century. It runs teams for children, youth, boys, girls, senior men, women and amateurs. It represents more than 1,000 players, with 200 volunteer coaches and officials spread across 75 teams. According to the club, that makes it the second biggest community club in Scotland and the biggest in the east of Scotland.
Edinburgh South’s ambition to improve its facilities and provide year-round participation and improved provision of changing rooms is absolutely to be commended. I urge partners to work together to achieve the best possible solution.